-from our roving reporter

Wednesday 21 May - Castells de Castells

Under clear blue skies and superb visibility that made the surrounding mountains appear especially beautiful, Gerald blew his shrill whistle to call the 30 happy wanderers to order. He concluded his preamble (good word that!) by telling us that this would probably be the last walk he would lead as father time was creeping up on him and to cries of “Shame”, he led us off through the village of Castels de Castels: We had to go that way to collect Maureen who was stationed to divert cars away from the usual parking area which was closed off due to development works (which have been going on for months!). We walked up to join the fig tree path and had lunch next to a partridge nursery after Gerald had led us expertly up a faint path from the basin-like, wild boar rich hollow below. After lunch we took the easier forestry track back to Foyes Valley as Gerald did not fancy the prospect of the difficult goat track down to the Baranco Galistero. The walk back through the woods and with nightingales singing loudly was walking here at its best. Well done Gerald and Maureen, we all hope you continue enjoying walking, but you and your knowledge of the hills will be missed by our group.

Wednesday 14 May - Bolulla Circuit Lunch Walk

Val W the co-ordinator had lugged along the official CBMWs  sign complete with wooden supporting leg and high tech revolving directional arrow. This she placed at a strategic point on the road betwixt Bolulla and Tarbena to indicate the turn-off for the 3.7 kms steep ascent to the start of the walk below Bolulla Castle. The unusually small turn out of 8 walkers created some panic for Val who had provisionally booked lunch at the Bar Era, Bolulla for several hundred diners so this problem was resolved by a quick telephone call before the walk commenced. The weather was warm and sunny as Colin B & Rosie both with an obvious excess of energy decided to get matters underway and the remainder of the group were amazed at Colin’s ability to stretch away uphill whilst texting on his mobile. As we gained height the mist appeared but this cleared away after an hour and most of the walk was enjoyed in bright sunshine. On the return leg of the walk we came across an ex member of the CBMWs who many years ago had decided that the numbers on the walks had become too large so had decided to become a team of two with her husband. She revealed that her nickname was ‘Legs’ and that she was a friend of Mary Gowland. Apparently she was into amateur dramatics and was well known for being a thigh slapping principal boy in pantos. Peter B’s ears pricked up as he thought she said ‘panties’.

The walk was concluded without further earth shattering events to report and the group enjoyed a very good 9 euros menu del dia at Bar Era in the village…………….excellent value which included bread & ali-oli plus carajillos (un carajillo es un café en España con un poco wísky). Many thanks to Val for her usual enthusiastic leadership.

Quote of the day: "There is more to life than lust." - Colin B.

Saturday 10 April - Charles Pye’s Bamboo Shower Curtain

The traffic must have been light as all the walkers arrived in plenty of time before Charles Pye led us off on time. In fact there was time a plenty for a warmc offee in the Bar Aire beforehand. With clear blue skies and a fresh breeze 15of us picked our way through the streets of Benixembla (to cheery “Bon Dias” from the locals) and then down in the baranco of the Jalon river bed where Charles explained that the October Gota Fria had ripped out the bamboo and its curtain effect. He also added that no refunds were due to any disappointed participants. We made our way “upstream” until we turned right onto a path that allowed us to climb up the valley side and get good views across to Cocol and back towards Jalon. The climb was hot work in full sun and still air and a few of us were gasping by the time we reached the point where the track follows the contour lines along the valley. The path was not too scratchy (considering it was a Pye walk) and passed through some surprisingly lush areas with wildflowers in profusion. The more progress we made the more the percentage of blue sky reduced and it was not long after midday that the first rumble of thunder rattled around the valley. We had a hurried lunch in an old finca as the electrical activity increased. Out came the wet weather gear and Peter Barraclough appeared to put on a giant green condom. We followed a broad track down to the riverbed but by now it was raining steadily and our leader opted for a quick return along the road. By the time we entered the Bar Aire (again) we were a bit soggy and it was raining Gatos & Perros .We took solace in several glasses of the amber nectar before dispersing happily

Wednesday 7 April - Embalse de Guadalest

The sleepy hamlet of Beniarda was aroused earlier than usual by the arrival of 26 enthusiastic walkers. Irene went through her usual pre-walk routine by distributing her wares to the masses and was able to offer the choice of a bag of either nisperos or oranges. Thank you Irene for your generosity and for keeping away the onset of rickets.  Fortunately the local bar was open for some to take a pre walk coffee before John Mail blew his whistle to lead off the walk.

The weather was kind and on the outward journey the group were surprised to come across a lone and friendly St Bernard dog heading down the road in the opposite direction. We reached the dam just after 12.00 hrs. by which time a keen north-westerly breeze had sprung up so having stopped for only a couple of minutes to admire the trout in the water far below we pressed on along the track for the shorter and straighter route back to Beniarda and the optional lunch at the Restaurant Mezquita. Peter Barraclough in his capacity as the catering manager had established everyone’s preferences and  after a leisurely drink on the bar terrace 22 sat down for an excellent menu del dia. Many thanks to Peter & John for a memorable day.

Saturday 12 April - Forada Ridge

Nine + three dogs left at 10:00, one chose to go his own way for a time but did meet up with us later, but two plus one dog disappeared without trace.  All in a day’s work for leader Jon Lyons, who took us on a fine walk on the Forada Ridge at a pace which wouldn’t have disgraced a Commando training course - 17.4 km, 970m+ ascent, 5.5 hours.

Wednesday 9 April - Penya del Migdia

Forty two people and three dogs gathered in the Tormos piscina swimming pool car park and the storm clouds gathered above them.  Everyone agreed that it was going to pour with rain in the near future and that it would be mad to go walking in the mountains on such a day.

So we set off on what was a fairly easy climb and everyone began to relax until leader Ralph Phipps stopped and announced that we had done the easy bit and now it was going to get tougher with steep climbs on crumbly paths, and that he would be profoundly grateful if everybody took care not to fall to what would undoubtedly be a nasty death.  This did for three walkers of the female persuasion who promptly turned around. 

The rest of us continued, somewhat chastened, and Ralph hadn’t exaggerated – it was a bit tricky.  There was nowhere such a large group could stop half way up so it was with considerable relief when we finally reached a reasonably flat area for a late banana break.  And then it started raining.  Fortunately we had all been sensible and brought wet weather gear. Correction:   we had all been sensible except Colin Bagnall, who stood getting wet resplendent in his multi-coloured Caribbean shirt and white Panama hat.  Even Rosie the dog had a mac and rain-hat.  (OK, I made that bit up.)

It didn’t last long and by the time we got to the summit it had stopped and we were rewarded with 360° superb views – although it was too blowy to stay up there for long.

We found a reasonably sheltered place for lunch and descended to a track which led back to the village.  The three deserters were sitting in the bar looking smug, and do you know what?  They hadn’t got a round in! Typical!

We all congratulated ourselves for not being put off by the weather (unlike the 'A' team - wussies!) and congratulated Ralph for leading a great walk.

Wednesday 19 March - Montgo in Reverse

A small but lively gang turned up for this ‘Reverse’ experience.

Our young VIRGIN leader (her words not mine!) now recovered from her 50^th birthday hangover,  tested everyone’s fitness and ability by maintaining a steady/strenuous pace throughout.  (albeit with plenty of well earned recovery breaks)

This reverse route took us up the beast’s rear left leg to the well of its back, along it’s back to the top of its head, down its trunk and back home via the Colonial Way.

The day started warm and sunny but on arrival at the summit for lunch,  the cold sea mist closed in. Nevertheless a sheltered warm spot was available before we began our descent.

The long legs mentioned in the programme were a bonus, and our little friend ‘Luna’ at the back managed to hitch a lift now and again.

A lovely walk, a lively gang and a strong and competent leader who takes no prisoners.

Thanks for a good day Helen and to Mike for sweeping.

Saturday 1 March 2008 -

Colin Bagnall took over from Charles Pye and 12 people set off never having done the walk with only guidance from a piece of paper and map.

A beautiful day and walk ensued, cutting west from Farmorca on the bancales we hit the path upwards to the font and col. From here along the rim eastwards down the valley and up to the top. Splendid views all round. Down to the val de la canal and home via the cave paintings and nevera.

12 very happy people back to the Bon Aire
 

Wednesday 28 February 2008 - Azafor

I ought to have guessed something was wrong when I saw only four walkers at the start, the others must know more than I do- The leader asked if we wanted to try a short cut he had recced earlier, foolishly we agreed. He later admitted under torture it had been 4-5 years ago. It started off alright, we walked up the steps to the Refugio, continued up a sort of goat track, up the Cim or circus beside the quarry. The goats decided they had had enough so turned back, but not our leader, he handed a saw to one member who looked as if he was going to make a run for it. They attacked the undergrowth for an hour and a half with the saw and sécateurs. At one point I had reached the safety of the rocks and a path and gave a piercing howl, eventually they found me.Photographs were not allowed at this point. Then we found evidence of more goats where a notice was placed stating " good grazing below", so let's hope they will meet up. We reached the PR track by the forat and had lunch. To the Nevera and then the summit, even that was 2 mtrs higher than before. We met a herd of goats guarding the path, Xima eyeballed a huge male and they gave way. We descended towards Font Oblits but were allowed a short cut as we had eaten earlier. Along the forestry track to the newly tarmaced road. One walker did a runner back to the cars at this point. We descended to Font Mata and saw the waterfall in full spate.

We were now 6 hrs into the walk, we climbed back up to the road, it would have been thoughtful if the cars were there as we were half an hour into penalty time but no, down the hill for another mile. What a sight. In the bar the leader bought us a beer and three straws for helping with the pruning.We were informed that the route was 7 km shorter and 60 mtrs less ascent, no great comfort at this stage.Then I went off home to bed exhausted, well I am 70 now.

Yours,  Rocky.

Wednesday 28 February 2008 - Dave's Cave

Lovely warm day and 13 of us set off, it was nice to welcome Bob Fisher and John Mail.

Dave's caves first which Peter led, slow progress on slippy difficult ups and downs with many oohs and aahs at the impressive sights, stalagmites y tites.

Bob led us along the water canal to the foot of the larger cueva and Colin took us upward. After lunch we explored the huge cave and Vic encouraged us to explore from the large to the small. Both sets of caves have scope for extensive exploration.

Back to Vergel for a pleasant end and Rosie got a sausage.

Saturday 16 February - Val d'Ebo/Barranco del Infierno circuit

Thankfully the day was fine after days of poor weather so everyone seemed to be relieved they had been allowed out to play.

25 set off and 27 finished. It doesn`t often happen that way round but Sue S and David joined us at the top of the only real ascent. (not daft that pair - a bit lazy perhaps, but certainly not daft !!)

Our Leader (bless him) had kindly arranged for an abseiling demonstration to be staged at the 100m deep pot hole which was most thoughtful. Val W asked one of the participants if she could " have a go " but he thought she was joking (he obviously doesn't know Val!)

But Val`s tail was now well and truly up, so much so that when we reached the top of " the corkscrew " she INSISTED on being taken down. Our Leader, who was a little apprehensive, asked for volunteers to help and a few able - bodied stepped forward. The rest of the party were lead by that ever more confident Margo (we'll have you leading a complete walk yet my girl ) down the normal path.

Congratulations Val, you made it in less than favourable conditions and only a couple of months before your 70th. An example to us all. (as ever) O.K. it took two strong men to manoevre you over a few difficult parts but hey, YOU DID IT.

The trip back up the Barranco was interesting, everything was so different since the storm so, I suppose, it was a first for everyone.

Congratulations once more Val, you certainly made my day and have a great party on 19th April

Bernia East Ridge & Summit

Cloudless to start, this was a good walking day in the middle of some bad ones and in fact by the time we were admiring our efforts from El Peon, it had clouded over.

25 walkers and 3 dogs slogged up to the far col to be rewarded with the magnificent view. Jack led off and misguided us to a difficult descent before the summit. Rocky completed it with tail wag while being handed down.

From there we looked at one rock arch and went under another. Most of us went to the summit. Some abseiling was done and others returned on the circuit route which most charged down the exhilarating long scree. Jack said it took him 34 seconds but Bernt holds the record at 22.

An excellent days walk. Well done Peter.

Wednesday 13 February 2008 - Almond Blossom Walk

Almond blossom walk led by Alma Dauris and swept by John D, a sunny day but cold with about 25 walkers and nice to see Bob Stansfield at the start.

Some almond blossom past it's best but plenty in full bloom.

A most enjoyable walk, well led and capped off in the bar.

Monday 11 February 2008 - Carrasca Ridge via Barranco del Infiernio

A disappointing turn out for our first trial Monday walk - even the weather could have been kinder.

After a short discussion it was decided not to do the programmed walk but instead to recci another future Monday walk that Dave is no longer able to lead and Christine (from Pego who was with us today) has very kindly volunteered to take over. Many thanks Christine - you`re a good mate, I only hope you get a few more to turn out (but not to many!!)

Although the weather was dull and a little colder than we`ve come to expect this winter the 5 of us thoroughly enjoyed our day together with the usual post walk refreshments (taken indoors for a change)

Please make a note that the next Mon. walk is programmed for March 10th (which is not for the faint - hearted but well worthwhile), the next is April 14th and Christine's less strenuous walk is on Mon. May 12th. Make a note in your diaries, you never know, you may find walking on a Monday just as enjoyable as any other day !

Saturday 9 February 2008 - Barranco Galistero Circuit.

Sunny day, 14 walkers and 1 unauthorised dog.

Exhilarating series of stone waterfalls followed by a high level return and capped off at Bar Bon Aire.

Congratulations Pete on a job well done

Wednesday 6 February 2008 - The Rim of Almadich

What a wonderful walk and what a perfect day for it - not a cloud in the sky nor a breath of wind.

Firstly a few "thank you's"

Thanks Charles for submitting the walk - sorry you couldn't make it though - we all hope your leg gets better soon and you're back "setting the pace" in the mountains again.

Thanks Peter B for volunteering to take over the walk - always the dependable one. It would have been nice to have seen you but anyway, we hope your stomach gets better soon (you could do with loosing a little weight so keep looking on the bright side.)

Thanks Dr Geoff for stepping in at such short notice, which was very kind (what a star ) I thought the first 1km was walked at a good sprightly pace. Sorry a little too sprightly for yourself Geoff. We do hope your pulled calf muscle will repair itself a little quicker than your recently injured knees and you managed to retrace your tracks and got home safely ("Physician heal thyself ")

Thanks Vic for recognising the serious situation we now found ourselves in and for taking over. (I could already envisage all the letters that were sure to descend upon the website by Friday ) Well, I thought you'd taken over but you managed to disappear before lunch time. (hey, I understand the pressure on you - 38 people is a big responsibility) Anyway, I hope everything turned out o.k. and you also managed to get home safely (and then there were 36!)

And then stepped in our ever reliable " Rocky " with his support act our Chairman, Jon. What would we ever do without such a team? Apart from a rather scratchy but most interesting detour we completed the walk with nearly as many as we'd started (34 now - a couple of lass's had managed to get ahead of themselves and had clearly been in the bar for quite a while before we arrived !!!)

And finally, thanks to our sweeper Alan. Your patience during all this swapping around was admirable, well done

Nothing more to add only to repeat it was a great walk and thanks again to the "entire cast" for making it such a memorable day.

More pictures in the Photo Album